Learn and Practice Point Cards in Hearts
More Detail
In Hearts, only certain cards carry points: each heart (♥) is worth 1 point (13 hearts = 13 points total), and the Queen of Spades (Q♠) is worth 13 points by herself. All other cards are 'safe' with zero points. Your goal is to avoid winning tricks that contain these point cards.
Why This Matters
Knowing exactly which cards carry points helps you make smart decisions. You might happily win a trick with only diamonds and clubs, but avoid winning one with even a single heart. The Q♠ is especially dangerous - one trick with her gives you half the round's points!
Key Rules to Remember
- Every heart card = 1 point (13 total)
- Queen of Spades = 13 points
- Total possible points per round = 26
- All other cards (diamonds, clubs, other spades) = 0 points
Common Mistake
Thinking all spades are dangerous. Only the Queen of Spades carries points - the King, Ace, and other spades are safe (though they can force you to take the Queen).